The security industry has become an essential part of everyday life, whether a private company or a public agency. Security is necessary to protect buildings and businesses and ensure safety and health. The market for security guards has been growing in recent years as the demand for security has increased. The competition has also increased, with many companies offering high-tech security systems.
Public security vs. private security
Whether you are a private security or public policing agency, you will find that the roles and responsibilities of each have a mutual impact on the safety of the public. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that both private security and public policing can maintain a harmonious relationship.
A company should set up a written agreement to ensure that both agencies can perform their duties effectively. This will outline private and public security’s legal and operational roles. It should also include specific rules for deployment around the company’s facilities and equipment availability.
A company should also have a training program for its PSPs. This should include weapons-specific training. A comprehensive needs assessment should also be conducted during the contract negotiations phase. This should cover training, communications, transportation, and stakeholder engagement.
A company should also implement a contingency plan for public security absences. A well-qualified security agent is more cost-effective than a poorly trained one.
A company should also engage with local communities on how to prevent data breach . In addition, a company should establish a process for human rights abuses and reporting such incidents.
A company should also conduct a formal training program in crowd control. Understanding how to apprehend someone correctly should be a priority for both private and public security.
Increased demand for security guards
Across the United States, there has been a significant increase in demand for security guards. According to the United States Bureau of Statistics, there will be 40,200 new jobs for security guards between now and 2028.
The number of security guards employed has been rising at a rate of five percent since 2010, and the unemployment rate for this position has been falling. However, more qualified officers are needed to make it easier for security firms to meet this demand.
As crime rates increase, private security officers are getting a more significant role in many communities. These guards are often former law enforcement officers and are paid well above minimum wage.
As the security industry continues to grow, the demand for security guards is projected to grow at a rate of 5% through 2024. As a result, those looking for a stable career will benefit from working as security guards.
The average salary of a security professional in Virginia is $48,000. That salary varies depending on where the person is working and their experience. For example, a former law enforcement officer earns 80% more than a traditional security guard.
The demand for security guards is also increasing in other areas. Schools and hospitals are hiring more guards to protect students and clients. Retailers are beefing up their armed security presence, often using ex-police officers.
Increased competition from high-tech security systems
Whether you protect your customers, your employees, or your assets, you can benefit from high-tech security systems. They are not designed to compete with the security industry, but they can serve as an excellent complement to traditional guards and guarding services.
There are many types of security systems, including wireless and wired systems. They include alarm systems, access control systems, surveillance cameras, CCTV, smart locks, and PDAs. Among them, wireless systems have the most market share.
The competition in the security industry is stiff. Unlike the service sector, there is no single monopoly player. The need for cost-effective security guards further compounds the competition. However, the industry has found some practical solutions to its challenges.
A good example is Ai, which has become essential in digitally securing private data. This technology is also expected to aid in the security and surveillance sector.
The best way to avoid a security breach is to have the proper measures and measurements in place. This includes accurate timekeeping and a well-trained and skilled workforce.
It’s no secret that the security industry is undergoing a shake-up. Companies with the “business as usual” approach have been forced to change their game plan to survive in an increasingly dynamic business environment. Despite this, some have managed to retain their customer base.
Health and Safety
Occupational injuries are a big problem in the security industry. For instance, security officers are injured at more than twice the rate of the average worker. And there is a high rate of violence against security workers. Those that work at night are more at risk.
The most effective tool to keep employees safe at work is training. A good training program develops safety practices from the bottom up. It teaches employees how to handle different situations. It also provides information about their rights.
Safety regulations encourage employers to provide a healthy workplace environment. It can prevent illness and accidents. A healthy work environment increases employee productivity. It leads to better job satisfaction and retention.
There are several other health and safety programs for the security industry. These include the Workplace Safety Index, which Liberty Mutual Insurance maintains. It also tracks trends in injuries and compensation costs. It also offers information on the latest regulations.
The National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) supports safety professionals in the United States. It operates the NIOSH Education and Research Centers. Its Strategic Partnership Program focuses on small businesses and hard-to-reach workers. It also offers compliance assistance tools to help employers meet the requirements of the law.
